Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve - Whiskey Review
Tasting the American Dream
The
Van Winkle name is more than steeped in American tradition.
Its four generations of bourbon-making date back to 1935,
when Julian P. Van Winkle, Sr. opened the Stitzel-Weller
Distillery in South Louisville, Ky. “Pappy,”
as he was fondly called, played an active role in his distillery
until his death in 1965 at the age of 91. As a tribute to
him and the family, grandson Julian Van Winkle III created
a special “Family Reserve” line, a small-batch
bourbon that includes a 15-, 20- and 23-year-old malt.
What’s
special about this bourbon — and most other Van Winkle
bourbons — is that it incorporates wheat, not rye, into
its corn mash. Wheated bourbon generally gives the spirit
a sweeter, smoother taste than rye bourbons and allows it
to age for longer periods of time. But don’t let the
word smooth fool you. Although full of sweet flavors like
vanilla and toasty oak, Pappy’s bourbon packs heat,
which expresses itself in the long, spicy finish. The 23
Year is the smoothest of the three and is characterized
by a deep amber color and complex flavors of honey and toffee, although its lengthy aging time also makes it the rarest. If it is unavailable, look for the two younger versions
of Pappy’s elixir, a must-try for American whiskey
enthusiasts.
Products (Original Price)
Old Rip Van Winkle 10-Year 107 Proof
(N/A)
Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 15-Year
($48)
Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 20-Year
($90)
Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 23-Year
($250)
Van Winkle Special Reserve
Van Winkle
Family Reserve Rye
|
Avg. Price Today
$400
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
$500
$900
|
For more information, visit the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery official website |